This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet is a tasty one-pan meal filled with juicy beef, fresh spinach, and creamy feta cheese. It’s quick to make and super satisfying!
I love how simple it is to whip this up after a long day. Plus, who can resist that cheesy goodness? Serve it over rice or pasta, and you’ve got a delicious dinner in no time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Beef: I recommend lean ground beef for less grease and healthier meals. If you’re looking for alternatives, ground turkey or chicken works well too. For a vegetarian option, try using lentils or plant-based crumbles.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is key for its vibrant taste. If fresh isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just be sure to thaw and drain it well before adding. Kale is another substitute, but it may take a bit longer to wilt.
Feta Cheese: Feta adds a nice tang. If you don’t have it, try goat cheese or even ricotta as a milder alternative. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based feta cheese products available in stores.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté the Onion and Garlic?
Getting the onion and garlic just right is essential for building flavor. Start with medium heat to avoid burning. When you add the onion, stir it occasionally until it turns soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Once you add the garlic, watch closely because it burns quickly—just 30 seconds is enough to release its aroma.
- Heat olive oil in the pan first before adding the onions.
- When the garlic is added, keep stirring so it doesn’t stick or burn.
- This helps develop a beautiful base flavor for the rest of your dish!
Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Skillet:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 6 cups fresh spinach (about 5-6 oz)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious skillet dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, making a total time of about 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will help cook the onions and garlic nicely.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté it for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. This builds a great flavor base for your dish.
3. Add the Garlic:
Now add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds. Stir it around so it doesn’t burn and release all those lovely aromas.
4. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it up as it cooks. Let it fry until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 6-8 minutes. If you have excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
5. Season the Mixture:
Sprinkle in the dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat), salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine.
6. Add the Spinach:
Now it’s time for the fresh spinach! Add it in batches, stirring until it wilts before adding more. This will take just a couple of minutes.
7. Finish Cooking:
Once all the spinach is wilted and mixed in, remove the skillet from heat. This will help keep the vibrant color and nutrients in your spinach.
8. Add Lemon and Feta:
If you’re using lemon juice, stir that in now. Then sprinkle the crumbled feta cheese over the top for that creamy goodness.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Next, garnish with some freshly chopped parsley or dill to add freshness. Serve the dish warm on its own or over rice, quinoa, or pasta for a complete meal.
Enjoy!
This Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta is not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrients. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Ground Beef and Spinach Skillet with Feta
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly drain the frozen spinach before using it. You might want to add it towards the end of cooking, just enough to heat through, as it’s already cooked.
How Long Will Leftovers Last in the Fridge?
Leftovers can last in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just ensure you reheat it thoroughly on the stove or in the microwave before serving!
What Can I Use Instead of Feta Cheese?
If you’re not a fan of feta, you can substitute it with crumbled goat cheese or a mild ricotta. For a dairy-free option, look for plant-based feta alternatives available at the store.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can add bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms—just be sure to sauté them along with the onion for optimal flavor. Adjust seasonings as needed to complement the additional veggies!